Even homeowners who take care of their roof will need a new roof eventually. A complete roof replacement is costly. However, if you wait too long, the house could suffer tremendous damage due to moisture seeping in and causing structural issues and mold growth. Read on to familiarize yourself with the signs you need a new roof.
Staining and Water Damage are Signs You Need a New Roof
When your roof is compromised due to missing shingles, damaged materials, or leaks, it can lead to mold growth. Professional mold remediation is a costly service, and allowing mold to flourish in your roof and ceiling can harm your house and your health. If there are signs of water damage or staining on your ceiling, act quickly and schedule a roof inspection. A professional will determine whether you need repairs or a new roof.
Aging Roofing Materials
Like other parts of your home, the roofing materials age and experience wear and tear with exposure to the elements. Once an asphalt shingle roof is 15-20 years old, hire a roofing professional to inspect it even if there are no apparent issues. An older roof is more susceptible to problems, so you can prevent significant damage by making repairs as needed. If you need a new roof, a professional will recommend options suitable for your home.
Damaged Materials
Unlike slate, most roofing materials are not designed to last a lifetime. Slate is highly durable, but other materials deteriorate with years of sun exposure and harsh weather conditions. One of the easiest ways to determine if you need a new roof is by inspecting your roofing materials for the following:
- Patches of missing shingles
- Several cracked or broken shingles
- Shingles with curled edges
- Bald spots on shingles
- Dark streaks
During a roof inspection, a roofing pro will examine the materials and tell you if a replacement might be necessary now or in the near future. In some cases, simple repairs will postpone a complete roof replacement.
Recent Wind or Hail Storms
One of the reasons you might need a new roof earlier than expected is due to a natural disaster or heavy storm. These can wreak havoc on different parts of your house, and the roof can sustain damage during strong winds and hail storms.
After a storm, look for shingles or pieces of roofing that have been torn away. In some cases, repairs might restore the roof, but a replacement may be more appropriate if there’s widespread severe damage.
A Sagging Roofline is One of the Signs You Need a New Roof
When your roof is in good condition, the roofline is entirely straight. Over time and with exposure to moisture, a roofline may start to sag. Moisture intrusion and water damage are severe problems and should be addressed immediately. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need a roof replacement. Contact a professional directly if you see that your roof is sagging.
Guardian Home Inspection Services offers inspection services to home buyers and sellers in Michigan. Contact us to schedule an appointment.